Immediate results of the 'Bioglis' valve use in the surgical treatment of Ebstein's anomaly

Background and aim of the study: The optimum material for heart valves biop rostheses remains in dispute. We have created a biological valve made from hepatic Glisson's capsule and named 'Bioglis'. Experimental studies have sh own the major characteristics of the 'Bioglis' valve to be equivalent to, a nd in some cases superior to, those of traditional valves made from xenoper icardial tissue. We present the first experience of the 'Bioglis' valve use in surgical treatment of Ebstein's anomaly. Methods: Twelve consecutive patients (age range: 7-48 years) with Ebstein's anomaly who underwent surgery between 1997 and 1999 were reviewed. A 'Biog lis' valve was implanted in all cases; two patients underwent repeat surger y because of incompetence of a previously implanted xenopericardial valve. The 'Bioglis' valve was formed, using a flexible frame, from the hepatic Gl isson's capsule of bull calves. Short-term results at between two and 10 we eks after surgery were analyzed. Valvular function of the implanted 'Biogli s' valve was monitored by echocardiography. Results: The implanted 'Bioglis' valve diameter ranged from 31 to 33 mm. Th ere were no in-hospital deaths or complications. Echocardiography showed go od function of the bioprostheses. Consequent peak and mean pressure gradien ts across the biological valve ranged from 3 to 7 mmHg and from 1.2 to 2.3 mmHg, respectively. Valve insufficiency occurred in one patient but was min imal. Conclusion: Preliminary results with the 'Bioglis' support our recommendati on of this new biological valve for clinical use.